- By Adeel Hussein

Our history dates back to the 6th-century. Did you know that over 23% of the global population are Muslims. In other words 1.62 billion people belong to our faith.

Of those, it's estimated over 75-90% are Sunni and 10-20% Shi'a, with a small minority belonging to other sects but no matter how many sects we have, all of us are united as followers of the Quran.The Quran, the sacred text of Islam, contains the teachings of the Prophet that were revealed to him from Allah. Essential to our faith is the belief that Allah is the one and true God with no partner or equal.

Irrespective of the sects, Muslims in general are united in their devotion for their culture and tradition.

Our lifestyle is strongly influenced by our customs. The customary "namaz" is an important part of our life and we follow the principles of the religion with utmost respect and reverence.

Islam prescribes a conservative dress code for both men and women. Both men and women are expected to dress simply, modestly, and with dignity. There are many such rules which we follow till date. Fasting and ritual sacrifices are also a major part in our culture.

We are proud followers of Quran as it guides our lifestyle and thoughts in the right way.

Our weddings are an extravagant affair. It is a traditional ceremony where strict rules of culture are followed.

On the wedding day, the Baraat leaves for the bride's house. On the wedding venue, they are given a hearty welcome and the groom enjoys a glass of sherbet with his brother-in-law. Soon after this, the Nikah commences. There are two religious heads present at the place, representing the two parties. The amount of Mehar, a compulsory amount of money to be given to the bride by the groom's family is also decided. After this, the Maulavi asks the bride three times, whether she accepts the concerned person as her husband, with the decided amount of the Mehar.

After her consent, the groom is asked three times, whether he accepts the concerned woman as his wife, with the decided amount of Mehar. After his consent, the Nikahnama is signed by the couple. This is followed by the recital of Khutba, a religious discourse. Blessings are showered upon the bride and the groom for a prosperous married life.

Following a lavish dinner, the couple is seated fact to face each other, with their heads covered by a dupatta. The Holy Quran and a mirror placed are placed between them, through which they are allowed to see each other for the first time. This is known as Aarsi Mushaf.

After the wedding rituals are over, the bride is bid farewell. This is called the Rukhsat ceremony. On reaching the groom's house, his mother holds the holy Quran over the bride's head as she enters the house. Next is the Valimah ceremony, which is a grand feast given by the groom's guardians. Subsequently, the Chauthi custom is observed, as per which the couple visits her parental home for the first time after marriage. They are given a lavish feast and presents by the bride's parents.